Early childhood teacher finds new opportunities in Mildura with ECTI support

When Shruti Vasishta accepted a position at Mildura Early Learning Centre earlier this year, it marked the beginning of a new professional and personal chapter, one supported by the Early Childhood Teacher Incentive (ECTI) program.

The ECTI provides financial and relocation support to early childhood teachers who take on roles in services in priority locations, complementing other Victorian Government workforce initiatives such as Early Childhood Scholarships to study, traineeships, and the Targeted Educator Incentive (TEI). 

The incentive program plays a targeted role in strengthening workforce supply in areas of greatest need. This program complements other financial and professional supports aimed at attracting, growing and retaining local talent through training, career development, and long-term workforce planning. 

For Shruti, the decision to relocate from Melbourne to Mildura was guided by both professional values and personal goals.

“What drew me to this role was the philosophy and values of the centre, it felt like a perfect match,” she explained.

“I’ve always believed in child-led, play-based learning, and this centre embraces that wholeheartedly. The ECTI program also given me the confidence and support I needed to take the leap into a new environment.”

Since starting her new role, Shruti has embraced the challenges and opportunities that come with change.

“It’s been a mix of excitement, learning, and growth. The children are full of curiosity and creativity, and the team has been very welcoming. I’ve had the chance to try new approaches, build meaningful connections, and really deepen my practice.”

Relocating to Mildura has also brought new lifestyle advantages.

“Mildura has offered me a calmer pace of life, a sense of space, and a chance to build stronger relationships with families. It’s a beautiful place, and the lifestyle here has allowed me to focus more on my personal and professional goals.”

Like many teachers who relocate, Shruti acknowledged it takes time to settle into a new environment.

“Relocating has definitely come with some challenges, mostly around building a new support network and adjusting to being away from the people and places I was used to. It’s taken some time for my partner and I to settle in, but we’re getting there.”

Looking ahead, she is optimistic about her future in regional Victoria.

“At this stage, I’m open to staying long-term. I’m starting to feel more rooted here, and I really enjoy the sense of community. That said, our future plans will depend on a few factors like career growth and family considerations, but I’m feeling positive about what lies ahead.”

Shruti expressed her gratitude for the ongoing support provided through the ECTI program, and the program’s role in supporting her transition to a new professional opportunity.

The Victorian Government’s financial support programs, including the ECTI and TEI, continue to play a pivotal role in strengthening the state’s early childhood education and care (ECEC) workforce. 

By encouraging qualified early childhood teachers and educators, residing both in Australia and abroad, to take up roles in priority communities, these programs are helping ensure that every child, no matter where they live, has access to high-quality early learning.

To learn more about financial support for study and work in early childhood in Victoria, visit here.